Bhai Phota, also known as Bhatri Dwitiya is an auspicious day for Bengalis. It follows soon after Kali Puja. Sisters pray for the long life of their brothers to Maa Kali. It is similar to other indian festivals  Rakhi and Bhai Dhuj of North India in spirit. This article cherishes the ritual of Bhai Phota.

This ritual starts the moment the phase of Amaavasya ends. The next phase is called Protipod. This year the Protipod is at 10.05 A.M. on 19^th Oct.

The Ritual involves:

The sisters arrange a plate with the ingrediants of ritual in it. They are : Paddy, Paddy grass, Sandal wood paste, Sweets, Kajal ( a cosmetic used to line the lower eyelid), and a lamp of ghee ( hard fat obtained by heating butter made from the milk of a cow or a buffalo) called Prodeep.

After  bath, the brothers  dressed well, sit on square sized piece of cloth called the Ashon. The sisters apply a mask made of Sandal wood paste called the Phota. It is applied three times.There is blowing of the conch shells. The spirit of Bhai Phota is in the air. Then, Kajal is applied by the sister on the eye brows of the her brother. This ensures the safety of the brother from all evil forces.

Younger brothers touch the feet of their elder sisters and seek blessings. Younger sisters touch the feet of their elder brother and seek blessings of long life and prosperity. Sweets and gifts are exchanged between the siblings.